Using Vodka as a Cleaning Agent

It's a "home remedy" in more ways than one. Vodka has plenty of uses besides serving as the go-to for cocktails and stiff drinks. At home, vodka can stand in for your typical cleaning agent. Look to the tips below in how to keep your home clean, tidy, and fresh using this party favorite.

Eliminate bad odors.

Spray diluted vodka onto clothing, in shoes, boots and other footwear, or in musty rooms to get rid of funky odors. You can also pour a bit of vodka into drains in your home, or into the trash disposal, to dispel any lingering bad smells.

Kill mildew.

Spray or sprinkle diluted vodka in the bathroom to kill mildew and discourage it from growing or setting in, especially between the tiles and in nooks and crannies in your furnishings.

Remove stains.

Vodka is a powerful stain-remover. Simply spritz some diluted vodka onto a stain on clothes, carpets, curtains, blankets, bed sheets, tablecloths -- you name it. Vodka can get rid of most oil-based stains, like grass or ink stains.

De-grease and remove sticky residue.

Spray vodka onto your kitchen counter, table, stove top, and other appliances, as appropriate, to get rid of grease stains and grime. The same also works for any surface with sticky residue.

Clean mirrors and glass surfaces.

A mixture of vodka, water, and rubbing alcohol works wonders on mirrors and glass surfaces, removing dust, dirt, hand- and fingerprints, plus stains and various residue from chemicals like hairspray. Dampen a soft, clean, lint-free rag with the mixture and rub gently onto the glass or mirror surface.